Froch repeatedly called out Calzaghe when the latter was still active, but his efforts proved futile - and the Welsh legend retired from the sport in 2008 after beating Roy Jones Jnr.

But Froch, who is targeting a mega-fight at Nottingham's City Ground in 2012 if he overcomes next opponent Andre Ward, has heard whispers Calzaghe is be contemplating a return. "We still may see me fight Joe Calzaghe, who I hear is back in the gym and on the pads," Froch told Sky Sports News.

The Calzaghe bout is a distant prospect for Froch, with unbeaten WBA king Ward set to pose a serious threat when the two meet in November. While Froch has mostly been respectful when talking about the American, he did allow himself a jibe about Ward's power.

"He's very fast, very skilful, and with fast hands," Froch said. "He's not a big puncher, so he's going to have trouble keeping me off him. I'm going to walk forward and show my strength and power by walking through his feather-duster punches."

If Froch does conquer Ward, and if Calzaghe is not an option, the Brit will seek revenge against Mikkel Kessler, who inflicted his only defeat as a professional. "He's potentially the next in line for this belt," Froch said. "He's the one I want - I want to set the record straight."